Joshua Tree National Park (USA)

Joshua Tree National Park straddles the intersection of two major desert ecosystems, the Mojave and the Colorado Desert. The park preserves diverse plant and animal life, including its namesake the Joshua tree. The park lies just north of the San Andreas Fault, which played a major role in shaping the mountains, valleys and boulder piles. Along with its natural features, the park preserves human history with archeological sites of the Pinto Culture dating back 7,000-10,000 years, along with multiple historic American Indian groups. Ranchers, miners and homesteaders have all tried their hand at making their living within the park.